(Washington, DC) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), the Ranking Member on the Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies (CJS) Appropriations subcommittee, Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH) and Representatives Annie Kuster (NH-02) and Chris Pappas (NH-01) applauded the announcement of a $299,529 grant awarded to Manchester Community College to support programs to help educate the next generation of skilled technical workers. The grant is funded through the National Science Foundation (NSF).

As the lead Democrat on the CJS Appropriations subcommittee, which funds NSF programs and projects, Shaheen has been a strong advocate for protecting and increasing funding for the agency and has long supported efforts to expand New Hampshire’s skilled and technical workforce.

“I often hear from small business owners in New Hampshire struggling to hire workers with science, technology, engineering and math – or STEM – skills, which is why I’m relieved to see federal funding come back to New Hampshire to help fill that gap in our workforce,” said Senator Shaheen. “These federal dollars are a helpful investment in expanding New Hampshire’s skilled and technical workforce. I will keep working to increase opportunities for Granite Staters that improve access to the education they need to compete and contribute in a 21st century economy.”

“This federal grant will help Manchester Community College prepare their students for jobs in cutting-edge, high-paying professions such as robotics and advanced manufacturing, while also giving our innovative businesses the workforce that they need to thrive,” Senator Hassan said.

“To build a thriving 21st century workforce, we must ensure students and workers are able to access resources to acquire the in-demand skills for today’s economy,” said Congresswoman Kuster. “This funding will help Manchester Community College strengthen its STEM education programs, providing students a path to develop the tools they need to succeed in a number of growing industries. I will continue working to expand economic opportunity so every Granite Stater can get ahead.”

"I'm pleased to see Manchester Community College receive additional federal funding to invest in Mechatronics education," said Congressman Pappas. "Training for these new-collar jobs is crucial to developing the workforce of the future and providing workers with the skills to fill good-paying jobs. We must continue to find opportunities to invest in skills training programs to help hardworking New Hampshire families succeed."